Toshiba Announces Version 3.0 Software for Aquilion 64; Fastest Reconstruction and Enhanced DICOM Data Transfer for Increased Productivity.

TUSTIN, Calif. -- Meeting clinical demands for applications that enhance departmental workflow, Toshiba America Medical Systems Inc. announced today the release of its Version 3.0 software for the Aquilion(TM) 64 and 32 computed tomography (CT) systems - the most advanced multislice CT technology available. The new software is designed specifically to improve overall departmental productivity, and features options that further enhance the industry's fast reconstruction kit, up to 28 slices per second, and includes enhanced digital imaging and communications format in medicine (DICOM) data transfer at up to 50 images per second.

According to Doug Ryan, director, CT Business Unit, Toshiba, speed and efficiency in diagnostic imaging are growing concerns. "Our Version 3.0 software enhancements deliver one of the industry's fastest 'data to diagnosis' solutions and advanced workflow improvements that increase productivity and help make departments more efficient."

In August 2006, production units for the Aquilion 64 and 32 CT scanners will feature the Version 3.0 software upgrade. Version 3.0 will be available as a field upgrade to existing Aquilion 64- and 32-slice systems in Fall 2006.

Version 3.0 Features and Benefits

Version 3.0 software comes standard with a wide range of features, including PhaseExact and Advanced QDS that are specifically designed to improve cardiac CT angiography, helical brain scans and CT fluoroscopy applications.

PhaseExact: Automated, optimal phase selection software for cardiac CT that improves workflow and clinical results.

Advanced QDS: Improves low contrast resolution in combination with specific scan parameters - ideal for imaging the brain. This enhanced scan feature results in a 20 percent dose reduction and improved patient safety.

DICOM Viewer: Automatically transfers data to a CD along with images - allowing for archiving to DVD using the software's raw data utility.

Presentation of Grouped Procedures (PGP) with Hard Split: Improves productivity by identifying and separating multiple exam orders, which are then transferred to the appropriate destination for reading.

CAN Level 1: Version 3.0 software supports synchronization of the injector and CT system using the Level 1 scan protocol option, which allows clinicians to start the CT system from the injector interface. CAN Level 1 is currently available with MedRad power injectors.

About Toshiba America Medical Systems

With headquarters in Tustin, Toshiba America Medical Systems markets, sells, distributes and services diagnostic imaging systems, and coordinates clinical diagnostic imaging research for all modalities in the United States. Toshiba Medical Systems Corp., an independent group company of Toshiba Corp., is a global leading provider of diagnostic medical imaging systems and comprehensive medical solutions, such as CT, Cath & EP Labs, X-ray, Ultrasound, Nuclear Medicine, MRI and information systems. Toshiba Corp. is a leader in information and communications systems, electronic components, consumer products, and power systems. Toshiba has approximately 161,000 employees worldwide and annual sales of $54 billion.